Obituary of Bernardo "Benny" Mendez

Bernardo “Benny” Mendez, 84, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, December 12^th, 2024.  He was predeceased by his father Nicasio, his mother Carmen, his younger brother Bertin (Quique), and his son-in-law Frankie.  He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years Marie (Angie), his siblings Noel (Johnny), Ramona, Luz (Lucy) and Gloria, his children Robin, Kenneth and Lisa, and his ten grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Benny was an avid bowler, runner, bicyclist, skier, player of the guiro, and “life of the party” dancer.  He was everyone’s favorite dance partner at any festive occasion.  He was a fiercely loving man who put caring and providing for his family above all else.  In his younger days, he took his family on many fun vacations and camping trips.  Later in life, Benny became a buddy and “partner in crime” to each of his grandchildren.  Some of them playfully called him “Grandpa Mustache” because of his bushy facial “squirrel”.  He showed unconditional love to his family and always said “I love you” and “be careful”.  He was always someone who could be counted on by family and friends and never hesitated to help anyone in need.  His strength, perseverance, and playful spirit was a true inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him.

He worked many long and hard years as a pharmacy technician, beauty salon partner with his talented wife Angie, brother-in law Max and sister-in-law Cela, delicatessen co-owner, and pharmacy assistant manager before retiring.  He was an active parishioner, member of the Holy Name Society, and usher at Our Lady of Pity Church, Staten Island.  He was known and appreciated for his contributions to all organizations and clubs he was associated with.

Benny Mendez will be sorely missed, but his joyful spirit lives on inside of us.

The visitation will be at Matthew Funeral Home on Wednesday, December 18^th from 3-8pm.  A funeral mass will be held at Our Lady of Pity Church on Thursday, December 19^th at 10:00am.